Chicken Thighs Braised in Cider with Sweet Potatoes

When you're in the mood for a real winter warmer that has tonnes of flavour, appeals to all the family and takes very little time to get in the oven compared to traditional casseroles, you can't go far wrong with this recipe.

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F/gas mark 6).

Stretch each rasher with the back of a table knife and then wrap it around a chicken thigh. Heat the oil in a large casserole with a lid and cook the wrapped chicken thighs in batches until lightly browned all over. Arrange on a plate and set aside.

Reduce the heat, then add the onions and sweet potatoes. Sauté for 5 minutes, until golden.

Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring to prevent it from sticking.

Add the mushrooms, redcurrant jelly, orange rind and bay leaf then pour in the stock and cider.

Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, return the chicken to the casserole and stir in the thyme.

Cover and cook for 1 hour, or until the chicken is completely tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season to taste and stir in the parsley.

To serve, sprinkle the casserole with the flaked almonds, then place directly on the table with a large bowl of creamy mashed potatoes to mop up all those delicious juices.